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LUDINGTON, MI – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the Reverend B. Douglas Niemi, 86, died on February 3rd, 2026, at his home in Ludington, Michigan. Born in Negaunee, Michigan, it would remain a place to which he was deeply connected. He was forever proud of his hometown, the beauty of the Upper Peninsula, and his Finnish heritage.
Pastor Niemi graduated from Negaunee High School (1957) then continued his education at Soumi College (AA), Augsburg College (B.A.), and the Lutheran School of Theology (Master of Divinity). He served congregations in the Lutheran Church of America (now the ELCA) in Saline, Michigan (1965), Bay City (1966), Greenville (1969), and Ludington, Michigan (1980). After retirement in 2004, he continued to be a supply pastor in northern Michigan for several years. In 2025, Pastor Douglas Niemi was honored by the ELCA for 60 years of dedicated ministry.
Not only a fisher of men but also a fisher of fish, Doug knew the rivers of the Upper and Lower Peninsula like the back of his hand and honed his fly-fishing skills on many of them. Pastor Niemi was a pitcher for fast-pitch community leagues and played in rec basketball leagues. His most enduring athletic memory was winning the 1957 Michigan Class B basketball championship in Lansing with his Negaunee teammates!
He is survived by his beloved family- wife of 65 years, Patricia Ellen Niemi (nee Carroll), daughters, Mya Sagan (nee Niemi) and Benta Niemi, son-in-law, Robert Sagan, granddaughter, Marija Sagan, and his sister Joan Maness (nee Niemi).
Pastor Douglas Niemi touched many lives in a variety of ways. He made exceptional efforts to help others and connect with people from every walk of life. He lived life to the fullest, undaunted by a challenge. Pastor Douglas Niemi was led by God and the joy of serving others. We thank God for his life and ministry.
A private family service will be held.
To view the full obituary, please visit www.GraceCremations.com.